Obituary of Robert C. McElheney

Robert C. McElheney Olean, NY Robert C. McElheney of 1302 N. Union St., passed away Saturday (June 1, 2024) at the Olean General Hospital after a short illness. Born March 17, 1938 in Webster, he was the son of William C. and Dorothy E. Bassage McElheney. On November 19, 1962 in Cheektowaga, he married Janet A. Strait who predeceased him on June 17, 2006. Robert entered the US Army in 1957 and served a combined 6 years in both active and reserve duty, part of which was overseas. He worked for J. H. Williams Co. in Tonawanda for many years prior to his retirement. He was a life member of the Gowanda Rifle Club and enjoyed joining friends there for shooting and hanging out. In 1996 he moved to Olean and was a life member of the St. Stephen’s Club and also enjoyed spending time at The Plant in Olean. All his life he enjoyed hunting and fishing, was a NASCAR fan and also a Buffalo Bills fan. He leaves behind a daughter, Dorothy McElheney of Olean; 4 grandchildren, Justin Warren, Jana Washington, Derric McElheney, and Charlie McDade; several great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his wife Janet, he was predeceased by a son Bruce McElheney in 2005; a daughter Judith McElheney in 1990; 2 brothers, Bruce McElheney and William McElheney, and 1 sister Patricia Sipple. At Robert’s request, no formal services are being planned. A celebration of his life will take place at the family’s convenience. Burial of his cremated remains will be next to his wife and son in Mt. View Cemetery Veterans Field of Honor in Olean, with military honors being accorded by the Allegany American Legion Ritual Team. Arrangements are under the direction of the Casey, Halwig & Hartle Funeral Home, Olean.